Gear

PB rainbow broke the 5wt on my birthday

Didn’t get to measure sadly, and the Clearwater rod was a worthy sacrifice

Fly fishing reel Empress No.1689 model (Kalamazoo)

One for sale near me. Fair to good condition. I love old timey reels. No idea what it’s worth. Are they good reels? Or valuable?

Rod/Reel

I’m looking to get into fly fishing. I grew up fishing, moved away from it for a good 15 years but my brother rekindled my love for it by inviting me out on the ice a few times this winter.

Fly Line Differences

Hi everyone, I'm wondering about fly line differences in value and how much more actual effectiveness you get per dollar. right now, on most of my rods, I'm using SA frequency boost, which is about $60-70 line.

Yamame

"Yamame" is a dwarf riverine form of cherry salmon/masu salmon (Oncorhynchus masou). Almost all Yamame are males, and they participate in spawning with sea-run females.On Sakhalin, we call them "podkamenka" (literally "under the rocks"). They inhabit mountain rivers in large numbers and bite well on all types of lures.

Slim Shady Baetis

By Bob Reece A baetis pattern with a secret. “Hopper” Juan Ramirez is full time guide on Colorado’s South Platte and Arkansas Rivers. His years of experience on these water have allowed him to build an on-the-water knowledge base that is second to none. One of his recent creations, the Slim Shady Baetis 5.0, is testament to his understanding.

T&T Contact 3 Initial Review

Picked up the Contact lll 1093 and honestly bummed. I came from using the Contact ll and loved that rod but feel I have lost so much with this one. I’m curious what people think but I personally want to go back to the prior generation despite wanting to like this new release.Loss of power - Rod feels like it has lost its backbone.

How to fish this water

I’m new to fly fishing just my second time out ever and I have no idea what I’m doing.I have a 9ft 5wt rod and 5/6 reel. 9 ft 4x leader and 4x tippet. So I was using a double nymph rig with a #12 stone fly as my first fly.

Spinning rod recommendations

Due to unfortunate events fishing on my lunch break today, I find myself in need of a new spinning rod. More often than not I fish BFS but today decide to try the spinning rig, and the top half of my rod went down the river. So now I’m shopping.

Top ten fishing LURES for stocked trout?

And I want specifics, weight, colour, brand.

My 7yo daughter's first lure trout

Caught on a spoon 👍

How to Catch Trout on Dry Flies During Winter

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Dry fly fishing is an addiction. Watching a trout rise slowly from the bottom of the river to slurp down your perfectly drifted fly does something to your brain that makes you instantly want more.

MFWP Asks Flathead Anglers to Stay Vigilant for Illegal Brown Trout

Nine months after a single brown trout photograph triggered one of northwest Montana's most urgent fisheries investigations, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks says eDNA testing found no trace of the nonnative fish—but the agency isn't standing down.

Summer’s Over

HERE'S ONE IMAGE AND AND A BRIEF STORY FROM AN ESSAY I DID FOR HATCH MAGAZINE. TO SEE THE REST OF THE IMAGES VISIT HATCH. YOU'LL BE GLAD YOU DID. In August of 2010, at he end of a hectic and exhausting summer, I found myself in western Alaska for a week at the Alaska West Lodge. Frankly I was a little burned out.

Gear check

Fish for your attention. Im considering an 8wt rod for steelhead and some ocean beach casting. Im thinking tfo nxt, tfo ntr3, cortland sl 444, two aventik 8wt sink lines and a cheap aventik reel for poverty level ocean beach casting.I am spending more on steelhead, but would like the option of some beach casting if i end up over there.

First Brook Trout and a Vintage Rod

We made it out to our local State Park today and had a good day. I fished a vintage glass rod that my dad found in his house and gave to me. My casts got a little sloppy with the slower action but I love how the glass feels. My only knock against it is the weight, it feels like swinging a bat compared to my modern 9ft 5wt fast action.

New Reel

Picked myself up a new reel at my local fly fishing shop! Super excited to get back out on the water and try and get my first trout on my fly fishing set up. Caught a couple of small bass and bluegill last season.

Officially addicted.

I bought my first ever fly rod back in December and haven't had a chance to use it until yesterday. I've never fly fished before and all I'll say is I don't think I'll be touching any of my spin rods ever again. Tight lines everyone

A Year Fishing The Everglades Special, Half Way Through A Bad Decision

By Paul Pucket FISHING WISE, I HAVE NEVER HAD A YEAR LIKE THIS ONE. I am fishing in places I have never fished and feel very lucky to have the opportunities. The main difference between this year, and the prior years spent chasing these mindless, slimy, instinctual creatures, is that I am limited to one fly. All year. The Everglades Special.

Got three of my friends on their first fish

There’s something about getting friends and family into this sport! So satisfying seeing their reaction and pure happiness fighting a fish for their first time on a fly rod.

First time euro nymphing and broke a pb!

Got a new euro rod and 2nd fish on it is my new pb rainbow! 20incher.

First time out euro nymphing and broke my pb!

Just bought my first euro rod and went out today to use it, targeted this rainbow for a good while had him eat once and missed it then eat again and bring him home! (Stocked fish ofc)

New UL setup

I told myself I didnt “need” a new combo. Then at 4 am I grew restless, woke up, went on Ebay and bought a reel.6’6” TFO Trout & Panfish rod1000 series JDM Legalis4 lb monoMy current rig is just a float down to a 1/32 oz jig with a plastic creek bug

Making The Connection- Saltwater

By Louis Cahill How do you connect your leader to fly line when the pressure is really on? This is sure to be a lively topic. I wasn’t aware this was such a hot button topic until I published an article by Devin Olsen titled, “Making The Connection,” and watched the comment section light up.

What should I throwing here?

What should I be throwing here, sorry for the video being short and bad, it’s a pretty fast river, splits into 2. (It’s to the left you can kind of see it) I’m pretty new to trout fishing and have a spinning rod. This was last time I went and I only took a few spinning lures.

Old, Nice Reels- what do I have here

I fly fish a lot, and have been tying flies and building rods for years. Apart from heavy or salt water rods, I’ve never given too much thought to reels though, and usually run them on the cheaper end for 5wt and under. A relative who was hardcore in his younger years fishing in Appalachia recently passed away and I inherited these guys.

Trolling with no downrigger for trout , what is the best lure ?

So what is the best lure for trolling with no downrigger? There is a lake we hit up and they rent out boats . What is the ideal lure . This lake also has striped bass but they plant one to two thousand lbs of trout every week

well well well

went out to the local creek today and saw a eando fly fishing so i walked up to chat, turns oit we had the same exact lure on! haha

Giant spooks and a double deceiver

Suckers are going crazy here in the Ozark’s so I tied up an orange fly to imitate them for smallmouth.The spooks are 5.5 inches and just shy of 7inches.

Travel Creel: Raising the Bar for Fly Fishing Travel

On the first official Travel Creel trip, a group of anglers gathered on the Oregon coast chasing winter steelhead. Travel Creel founder Joshua Schwartz had organized the trip around a simple idea: bring good people together around great fishing and even better food.

Favorite Materials from Fly Tyers Dungeon?

The last time I ordered fly tying materials from FTD was in 2017 and it was their holiday box.

Hawaii Bonefish

Couldn’t post a pic in my reply to someone asking about Kauai bones. Here’s a big one from Oahu a few years back.Bring the 8 weight and the 20# test!

Rod set up

Does it really matter that much for my rod and reel set up?I use my Shimano Nexave 4000hg for just like eveything, bass, Pike, walleye, creek chub etc, so it does have 25-30 I’ve test on it.do I NEED a smaller reel and light set up for trout?

Gear Review: St. Croix Legend Elite Fly Rod

I’m no stranger to St. Croix fly rods. Growing up, those were the rods my dad had stashed behind the seat of his truck, and the rods I subsequently snapped in my first futile attempts to fly fish.

Maruta in Tokyo

The maruta are entering the rivers of Eastern Japan now. The run isn't in full swing yet, there are enough fish around for a good day's fishing.7 Had a surprise carp too that certainly tested the 4x tippet and size 16 jig hook.

Small Wonder, Middle Georgia’s Shoal Bass

By Justin Pickett THE SETTING SUN IS WARM AT MY BACK AS I STAND AT THE REAR OF MY JEEP. I slip on my guard socks and wrench down on my boots until I’m happy with the fit. No need for waders today. The deep south humidity is smothering as I place my Buff around my neck.

Steelhead run came early in Idaho

Product of 60° days mid March

Looking for fly fishing buddy, Boston Aera. (I don’t have a car)

hi everyone, my name is Enrico. I‘m from Italy and recently moved to Cambridge for university (I’m 23).I brought my fishing gear but I don’t have a car here. I would love to join someone for fishing trips in the following months. happy to split the Gas and a bring food (I’m a good cook).Depsite beeing young I’m also quite experienced.

March Madness Bracket Challenge: Fly Fishing Edition

For March Madness, we thought it would be fun to put to the test a topic widely debated by fly anglers: the best species. In this March Madness Bracket Challenge, vote for your favorite species in each of four regions and see what comes out on top.

Dinner time

I had a short window to get out the other evening so I targeted some likely water on my home river, where I can almost always get into fish. Starting at a bend in the river, I rustled up some rainbows and whitefish on a double nymph rig; then switched over to a pine squirrel jig streamer and moved upstream to a glide under a cutbank.

Stolen roof rod tubes?

Hey Front Range anglers. I know this sub is all over but the Colorado fly fishing sub doesn’t get much traction and I know there’s a good amount of us here. Anyway, just picked up a rod quiver for a rather great, even remarkable deal on marketplace. I lowballed the crap out of the guy (as one does on Facebook) and he bit without a fight.

Vintage LL Bean Fly Rod Identification Help

Hi all, this popped up locally to me. Looks like a beautiful rod. I know that some cheaper bamboo rods are janky, but this looks fairly high quality. Any help with identifying weight would be appreciated. I asked the seller and they said they don’t see any thing on the rod. All I know is it’s an 8ft 4 piece.

Win an Epic 476 Packlight Fly Rod and Support Native Fish

Win a beautiful, limited-edition black 7' 6", 5-piece, 4-weight high-performance modern glass fly rod from Epic.

New wading boots arrived. River Salt WB from Patagonia crafted by Danner.

This is to replace my 10yo Simms guiding boots. After reading a lot negative feedback with regards to the recent decline of Simms gear quality, I opted for this one. I have high hopes that this pair would last longer than the Simms. Can’t wait to try them on the next trip.

Whats everyone's go to lures or baits??

Trout season is opening for me in a couple weeks here in NY. Looking to possibly add a few pieces to the tackle box. Whats everyone's go to lures,soft plastics baits? (Not flies)

Spey Casting Diagnostics Checklist

By Jeff Hickman SPEY CASTING IS A PROCESS REQUIRING SEVERAL STEPS TO BE FULLY COMPLETED IN A SEQUENCE. To effectively and consistently make good spey casts you need to focus on these steps, especially when learning. But even veteran and advanced two-handed casters also need to focus on the important steps.

Second rod

I currently fish a 9 ft 5-weight for trout and now I’m thinking about adding a second rod mainly to cover smaller streams.

Fly Fishing 101: Understanding Fishing Sunglasses

Over the past half-decade, as I’ve dived into teaching new anglers on essentially a full-time basis, I’ve come to realize quickly what is and isn’t necessary for a day on the water. You need a rod, reel, line, leader, tippet, split shot, indicators, floatant, flies, and a net.

Lamson Liquid S in -5+ for 7wt rod, with further plans for a 5wt?

Hi!I recently got a Maxcatch Gold 7wt floating line. Mostly for testing, but also for trying trout fishing in rivers/small lakes. I'm not rich, so splurging for a 4 or 5wt kit is not an option yet, considering how I 90% of the time fish in saltwaters. But the end goal is to buy a 5wt rod. My question is...

Trout fishing in Fast moving water?

Hi guys. My local river trout season just started today, I’ll be heading out tomorrow evening for the first cast of the season. The river is quite high just now & is moving quickly.

Build Your Own Fly Rod: DIY Video 3

Things are heating up in our DIY fly rod build. Matt Draft is back for the third video in our seven part series on building your own fly rod. In this video you’ll learn about tip tops, how to spline a rod blank, wrap your guides and get everything aligned.

Some gamechanger style flies

If they didnt produce i wouldnt waste time tying them but some of my largest bass and trout ive caught on them

Finally had one of those non stop days

I’ve been trout trolling mostly from my first kayak since November and chasing trout up here in Nor Cal.Checked out a new spot and finally had one of those days were as soon and you drop your gear it’s getting bit.

First session of the year.

The weather has been nice for a week or two so today I headed for the first session of the year. Expectations were low since I had never fished this early into the year.My plan was simple: two rods, 7wt streamer rod with intermediate line and a couple woolly buggers and a 5wt with floating line for nymphs and dries.

GAS

By John Byron It’s a thing. Gear Acquisition Syndrome. GAS. The most you can use at any one time is one. One guitar. One fountain pen. One fly rod. But how many you have is N, where N is a much bigger number than one. That’s GAS. The concept and phrasing, GAS, came from the world of music. Yes, how many guitars, pickups, mikes, etc.

First Trout on the Euro Rod

Read more about First Trout on the Euro Rod.

6ft 3wt

I used to have a Diamondback All American 6ft 3wt 2pc, but it got stolen in 2006. It was perfect for fishing tight small overgrown New England brook trout streams.Diamondbacks canned the model. Shortest rod they offer is 7.5. Any suggestions for a 6ft 3wt?

Cape Cod Fly Shops?

I am starting my second full season of fly fishing and spend a fair amount of time on the Cape in the summer (usually early and late summer). An older neighbor recently gave me two rods that he used to use for striper fishing; 8 and 9wt Orvis rods and a Battenkill reel.

Anybody else take their flies with them to work?

Anytime I tie flies that I really like, I seem to always take them to work with me the next day just to mess around and figure out what I want to change or just admire the work.Can you spot the mistake I made on one of these?I’m also a huge fan of Andreas Anderson. If you don’t know who that is, look him up and be amazed.

Reel suggestions

Been out of fishing for a few years, lost a few of my trout rods while moving, looking for suggestions for a good reel to put on a 5’ ultralight rod I’m gonna use for small rivers/ streams

Cut A Dovetail Every Day

Woodworking has taught me a few things about fly fishing. Before Gink and Gasoline I was, for a time, very involved in the world of woodworking. I was fortunate to photograph and spend time working with some of the most talented folks in the field, many of them are still great friends.

New rod + small question

Bit of an upgrade for the upcoming season. + Where do you prefer the balance point to be on an euro nymphing setup?

Lure

Trout catcher

Patagonia Fly Fishing Gear Recommendations

Just getting in to fly fishing and I got a Patagonia gift card from a relative for $300.

4 or 5wt for trout

I'm wanting to get into fly fishing, as I'm going to the Smoky Mountains by Cosby Creek in Tennessee. I'm just uncertain whether I should get a 4 or 5wt rod for trout and panfish.

8’6 fiberglass 3wt?

Hey all, been fishing a 5wt on rivers and lakes for my entire tenure. My local is mostly lakes, apart from a small creek here and there with tiny browns.

Best Trout Set Up

I recently bought a shakespeare micro series 7' light rod for stocked trout in lakes.What's your go to setup for trout (braid, mono or floro) what pound of braid, mono or floro you use and what kind of rig.I only fish for pike before using my gx2 medium action and i only use straight monofilament...

For sale: Hardy Ultralite HROUL904 4 Piece Fly Rod - Green Pearl, 9'0"

Used once. Pristine condition. It's wasted on me. $500 + shipping from LA.

Reel moving with rod movement?

New to western fly fishing. I picked up a Clearwater combo recently, and I'm excited to head out when trout opens here. I have noticed however that the movement of the rod will cause the reel to turn slightly back and forth producing a click as it spins regardless of how tight the drag is set at.

Is carp fishing fun?

So I’ve loved carp fishing on conventional tackle they fight crazy hard and they’re some cool looking fish and i know people target them on a fly so I was wondering if it’s fun, what flys, what weight rod, and how to catch them on a fly

My latest Trout:)

Read more about My latest Trout:).

Has anybody had an experience with the Lamson Speedster fly rod?

I'm looking for an 8wt fly rod for largemouth bass, throwing Clousers and poppers... the standard LMB flies so a fast action rod would be good. I was also considering the Echo 84B.

River season opens up in 5 days, Finally got everything together ready for it. Trout lures, Salmon Lures & A good set of flies. It’s been months since I was able to catch some brown trout🎣😆

Read more about River season opens up in 5 days, Finally got everything together ready for it. Trout lures, Salmon Lures & A good set of flies. It’s been months since I was able to catch some brown trout🎣😆.

Buying US-Made Fly fishing Gear Helps US Fisheries

DID YOU KNOW THAT 10% OF THAT NEW FLY REEL GOES TO SUPPORT FISHERIES? It's true. Thanks to the Pittman-Robertson Act of 1937 and the Dingell-Johnson Act of 1950, a 10% excise tax on all hunting and fishing equipment goes into a trust fund to support fish and wildlife management.

Streamer action

Here’s another fly that was tested out. I can’t remember the name of this fly but it’s a nice musky fly. I am in love with the action for bass.Thoughts, opinions, critiques are always welcome!

Beautiful day on the creek!

Had a banger of a day on a Wisconsin spring creek. Fished in-between some rain showers and managed 30 some fish in only 4 hours all on dry fly bites (The best kind)! Fell in love with my new Moonshine Rod Company 7'6" 3wt. That thing will bomb a dry fly to the moon and back, accurately!

Catching a 10lb+ Bass on a Fly Rod

Some fish turn into goals you measure seasons against. For Kieran Hoffman, the chase for a true double-digit largemouth had followed him for years. He’d come close, but never on the fly, and after more than a decade of casting and learning, it started to feel less like a dream and more like unfinished business.

2026 Wading Gear Goes Lighter, Greener, and Grippier

From PFAS-free waders to dual-compound boot soles, this spring's new releases push performance and sustainability in equal measure.

Caught my first fish

Caught my first fish yesterday on my new fly rod. This is my 4th time out since I got into fly fishing in December and yesterday was the first day I caught a fish. Was using a copper john and a strike indicator. Caught about 7 bluegill in a 30 minute time span.

Does Casting Technique Matter For Small Stream Trout Fishing?

By Louis Cahill You can sure catch a lot of trout with no more than ten feet of fly line, but does that mean that casting doesn’t matter? I had this conversation recently. I was fishing a classic, pocket water stream with a friend and at some point he asked me point blank why I was catching fish and he wasn’t.

Complete newbie, what should I add?

Hello,I'm not at all new to fishing, but am completely new to the world of fly fishing. I live in Southern Ontario, Canada, and once things warm up in a few weeks I plan on giving it a real effort.

New PB Rainbow, 29 1/4”

New PB Rainbow, caught in public water on 3lb test

Unhook Thyself! Safe, Painless Hook Removal

IF YOU'VE BEEN THINKING, "I LOVE GINK AND GASOLINE BUT I WISH IT COULD BE MORE LIKE JACKASS", THEN TODAY IS THE DAY YOUR DREAMS COME TRUE! There are two kinds of fishermen. The ones who have hooked themselves and the ones who are about to. It's a bad feeling the first time you put a big streamer hook in yourself past the barb.

Newbie Questions

New to the sport and have a few questions after my fire day out on my own. Previous experience was with a short class at a local fly shop, and a few day trips with a friend.

New to flyfishing!

Hey y’all, I have fished my whole life but never got into fly fishing and was thinking about picking it up. Biggest concern is getting the necessary gear on a budget which is about $200 atm. Is this possible and what should I expect getting into this new hobby!

I spooleg up my first ever fly rig.

Howdy yall. After a push from the might-as-well-be-brother-in-law (I need to pop the question), I got some gear using my pro discount from Far Bank.

Any idea who made this fly rod?

I’m looking and can’t see any name on it. So if anyone might have an idea I’d loveTo hear it.

My PB Rainbow

Haven’t been fly fishing too long so I am by all means still in the learning phase. I am an avid fisherman with your standard rod and reel, but fly fishing is a whole other sport I’ve learned! Anyways, thought I’d share this pic of what I would call my PB rainbow.

Trout & Salmon - April 2026

Trout and Salmon magazine has been the Voice of Game-Fishing in the UK and Ireland since 1955. Every month the finest contributors in the sport deliver informative, inspirational and entertaining writing, offering sage advice on locations, tackle and tactics,…

I started building a fly fishing weather and log app because I couldn’t find one I liked. Would love some feedback!

So I’ve been fly fishing for trout around Fife, Scotland for the last year (Wormit mostly with some River Eden failures lol) and I wanted a better way to track trips and conditions.I couldn’t find an app that focused on the stuff that actually matters to me when fishing, so I started building one myself. It’s called Fishable.

What can you guys tell me about this creel?

My boss was working at a clean out and an old man left some fly fishing gear behind, of course he knew I fly fish and asked me if I wanted it. I know it’s a creel but I’m unfamiliar with the brand and age. HELP!

Fly rod question

If you had to get a rod that can throw dries and indicator rigs, and then one dedicated streamer rod what would your choices be? Upgrading my redington trout classic setup and also getting a rod to throw some streamers.

Does Fly Fishing Need Another Pair of $1000 Waders? | TWIFF – Flylords Podcast

Welcome back to another episode of This Week in Fly Fishing, where Wills and Jared explore the latest fly fishing news and controversial opinions On this episode, we sit down with Drew Nisbet, Marketing Director for Sitka’s new line of fishing products, to talk about what it takes to build techni...

Spinning reel line weight and rod recommendations.

I fish for trout with a spinning reel in the Southeast and my typical setup is a St. Croix 6 ft ultra-light trout rod with a Shimano Ultegra 1000 reel and 4lb Fluorocarbon line. I am used to catching 10-14 inch fish, but I have recently discovered a section of river that is holding dozens of trophy size fish.

Double taper line

For those who fish a DT line and have fished the 444 has anyone tried the new airflow double DT? Any thoughts or reviews? I’m coming from many years of WF lines and looking to start in with DT for some of my shorter casting and longer leader setups. Any insight is appreciated.

At what point does a "fly" become a "fly rod lure"

At what point does a fly become a lure or soft platic you happen to throw on your fly rod? I think this minnow pattern crosses that line...

Surf Rod at The Lake?

I fish at a lake where I'm seeing action around 100 feet from the bank, which I cant reach with my gear.How ridiculous is it to bring my 10' surf rod and fling that thing out there into the deeper waters?I'm targeting trout and the lake I'm at doesnt have a lot of rock cover, so I figure they're ...

Was about to order some panther martins and packing the house today, found my father in law’s stuff I inherited.

Moving to the foothills of the Uintas and getting things in order. Got my fly rods and spinning rods ready to go. Now I have my spinner tackle and some of his old flies.

How We Test Fly Rods

At Flylords, one of the topics we cover frequently is new gear. Our goal with gear coverage is to test new products on the water and determine whether they are worth the investment.

How to Tie: The Mosquito

In this week’s “How to Tie” feature, Charlie Craven with Charlie’s Fly Box ties a dry fly that every angler will wince at the sound of, the Mosquito. Learn How to Tie This Fly: Difficulty: Intermediate March has begun and with it comes hopes of warm weather and productive days on the water.

Peacock Bass In The Amazon, Part 2

Packing for Success in the Amazon If you haven't read part 1, you can find it here. Preparing and packing the right gear prior to your departure to the Amazon is crucial for your overall trip enjoyment and fishing success.

Caught my first fish on the fly!

Ive been on a few camping trips with the fly rod and gone home empty handed. I went up to the Victorian high country in Australia to camp for a week recently with the family and was hoping to change that.I tried to put everything i had read into practice on the last fish of the trip, saw a rise and cast out to it.

Would it be a stupid idea to fish this wooly bugger on a 5 weight?

Season opens this weekend where I’m at and I’m trying up some streamers for the first time as it’s still pretty cold so I’m not expecting a whole lot of dry fly action which is usually what I fish. Not sure on hook size but it’s a 6.5mm brass bead. The only rod I have is a 9ft 5wt and I’m wondering if a streamer of this size is too big for my rod.

Behemoth browns from last fall

Lake run browns in WNY, all caught drifting and swinging streamers.

Dunnigan’s Panty Dropper Nymph

By Bob Reece Dunnigan’s P.D. Nymph is a trout magnet. As I’ve moved further into my fly tying and fishing journey, I’ve been blessed to meet some outstanding people. Casey Dunnigan happens to be one of them. A skilled welder by trade, his ability to create with his hands is evident in his fly tying as well.

Some old flies

My father-in-law passed along some fly fishing gear and these caught my eye.Probably from Michigan. Based on some other items I'd guess 1950s?

Wife’s first time flyfishing.

Decided to have a rod custom made for my wife for Valentine’s Day knowing she would be more likely to actually try if she had something “cute” that is her own.Even though it’s early in the year we drove up to my favorite freestone river as she said she was ready to try it out.

Suggestions needed!

Hey everyone. Looking for some suggestions for gear as a beginner into trout. I fish tournaments and go out on big lakes and ponds for bass so all my gear is really tailored to that.I have a handful of stream and rivers near me I’d like to fish this year for trout on days I just want to sit and hang on the shore.

Souper spoon

Molded on the back of a waxy soup spoon.Fabric cement cures in an hour or two. UV resin almost instantly.I know from making molded diving bills too kig is best. All lightweight fly rod motion flures have to be tuned, once, either at streamside or in the bath tub.Tuning means snipping away with scissors or toe nail clippers.

How do I get unsnagged?

Perhaps this is a silly question, but here we go. If I'm snagged on a rock while nymphing, how do I actually unsnag myself? Coming from tenkara, it's recommended to collapse the rod and pull the line so as not to snap the tip.

G&G’s Beginner Series: Taking the Plunge

By Justin Pickett As a beginner in the fly fishing world, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. And confused and while meandering aimlessly through a fly shop, or magazine, or a “big box” sporting goods store.

Newbie questions about using a fly reel from a kayak

Rented a kayak to go on a nearby river today, and somewhat on a whim decided to take my fly rod (equipped with a standard floating line and wooly bugger) with me and see how it went. Overall I'd say it was kind of awkward, but one fish was caught and I'm interested to try more.

Stipe Takes on Gierach and R.E.M. Records Fly Fishing Album

WHEN MICHAEL STIPE, LEAD SINGER FOR THE BAND R.E.M., MADE A STRING OF APPEARANCES ON THE COLBERT REPORT AROUND THE HOLIDAYS I WAS SHOCKED BY HIS CURRENT PHYSICAL APPEARANCE. To be sure, none of us are getting any younger and I applaud Stipe for embracing his graying hair and changing features, but there was more too it than that.

Don Gapen Style Muddlers

Bozeman rod maker Bill Blackurn made these Doh Gapen style MuddlersIt might have been Dah Bailey who popularized the clipped head incrrnation. Dan was a gift to civilization. But I do still like the original Muddlers best.

Men and Their Adventures

“Cuba is two weeks from today!!! Got to admit I’m a little nervous going where my phone and credit cards don’t work, and taking some ancient helicopter.” That’s the text I got from my buddy Geoff this morning. He’s had this Cuba trip planned for almost a year but it’s only now sinking in.

Ocean fly fishing - gear recommendations

I want to go to baja to fly fish for marlin, tunas, dorados, roosterfish, etc.Where do you buy gear for thiskind of fishing? Cabela’s and bass pro rarely has any wt 11/12 rods. What is the right setup for rod, line, etc for this?

Gear Help

I’m getting into the sport a bit more now and I’m looking at getting a 9’ 5wt redington classic trout while I have some spare change but I was wondering how important the reel really is? I’m looking to stay around the $300-$350 total between rod and reel.If anyone has other recommendations please...

Winston Air 2 Fly Rod: A Long Haul Review

The Long Haul review series is crafted to give you an honest, in-depth look at how products perform over time.

How to Optimize Your Drift Boat Storage

Fly fishing boats are tight spaces by design. Between rods, fly line, nets, and all the random essentials that pile up over the course of a day, it doesn’t take much for a clean setup to turn into a mess.

Anyone else swear by Panther Martins for stream trout?

I've been slaying trout in the small streams near Nederland using Panther Martin spinners. I like the black body with the yellow spots. Anyone else have a go-to lure for high-mountain streams around here? Always looking to expand my tackle box, lol.

My Experience At The G&G Bonefish School

By Jason Tucker I could not have been more shocked to find myself in the Bahamas than if my spaceship had crashed there. The call came on Thursday. “Can you go to the Bahamas for a week?” “When?” “We leave Saturday.” I checked with my employer, girlfriend and bank account. For once in my life the answer was yes.

1st Brown of the '26

Had no luck pulling streamers, switched to the BFS rod and caught 3 over 22in in the last half hour. Slowly twitching a brown Yum hellgrammite on ned rig across the sandy bottom by the weed beds.

Had a pretty spectacular day. Went 2 for 6 on steelhead and a couple browns to hand. The "GoTo" continues to produce.

Read more about Had a pretty spectacular day. Went 2 for 6 on steelhead and a couple browns to hand. The "GoTo" continues to produce..

2026 F3T Behind the Lens: Black Sheep

Jako Lucas is no stranger to the Fly Fishing Film Tour, nor far-off, stoke-filled destination fishing adventures. For this installment of F3T Behind the Lens, we sat down with the team behind Black Sheep: Jako Lucas of CaptainJack Productions and Wade Kelly of Flow State Productions.

So You Wanna Run Down the Man?

Roosterfish(pez gallo) in my opinion, are by far one the hardest fighting and elusive fish that can be pursued with a fly rod.

Nymphing off the mothership

I was looking through old pictures from when I was guiding from a mothership in Oman. We would get schools of fish hanging out in our lights at night, and I figured out I could drift little flies to them in the tidal current.Pictured are a Lunar Fusilier, a black tip trevally, a striped fusilier, a flagtail, a wave Garrick/dart.

Seeking a Tarpon Guide - Destin FL

I’ll be in the Destin, FL area this June and would love the chance to target tarpon on the fly. So far, I’ve only found one charter that specifically offers tarpon fly fishing trips.

High alpine season can’t come soon enough

Finally getting around to sorting photos from this past season. One of the fattest trout I’ve ever seen, and no slouch in the length department either

Fly Fisherman - April/May 2026

Fly Fisherman is the world's leading magazine for fly fishing. Every issue provides expert advice on the latest fly fishing techniques, the newest tackle and the hottest new fly patterns. Through informative articles, it highlights the best destinations for t…

Glass or Graphite, What’s Right For You?

When choosing between graphite and fiberglass fly rods, it’s smart to consider where and how you fish. I got an email the other day from a reader. Here’s an excerpt: “I am looking at a 7wt predominantly for trout and smallmouth here in Tennessee.

Budget Skagit line system?

I was given a Spey rod/reel setup by a relative a while back, but the line on it is not actually designed for Spey.

8 or 9wt as a second rod? Would you recommend the Fenwick HMG?

Hi everyone,I’m actively shopping for a second fly fishing rod in anticipation of next season. I currently have a 5wt setup that I bought last year to target trout and smallies.I’m looking for a second setup to complement it and I’m wondering if I should go with a 8wt or 9wt.

The Drift: Are Fly Rod Warranties Worth It?

While working in a fly shop once, an angler came in with a broken rod that he needed help sending in for warranty work. The manufacturer of the rod offered complete replacements, but did request that the angler explain how the rod was broken.

Help greatly appreciated

Hi all, I’m an 19M and have fished for the best part of 10 years, however only ever done float, spinning and sea fishing. Recently i have inherited some fly fishing equipment which i am desperate to get out and try. However im finding the range of flys and types of line quite overwhelming and leaving me clueless what to use.

Build Your Own Fly Rod: DIY Video 7

THAT NEW DIY FLY ROD IS JUST ABOUT READY TO FISH. In this, the last video of the series, Matt Draft, of Proof Fly Fishing, shows you how to fix some common problems that happen when building a rod. These helpful techniques will ensure that your rod is perfect and will help with future repairs. I hope you have enjoyed this series.

Traveling with Waders/Boots

I've never flown for a fly fishing trip, but I'll be flying out to PA this spring and plan on getting some fishing in. How are people traveling with waders/boots? I see tons of options for transporting rods/reels, but less specific options for traveling with waders and boots.

Newbie needs advice

Me and a buddy who are relatively new to the fly fishing world are planning a trip to the snake and Missouri rivers around late June and need some advice.

Antique market find

bought an old tackle box for 20$ at an antique market last October.

Thoughts on a Winston Air 2 864

I want to get a higher end rod, starting with a range I generally fish a lot. A light all around fly rod, sans euro styles. This range suffices a majority of my fishing.it seems Winston stepped out a bit from their dry fly only vibe and the Air 2 looks appealing but I have not spoke with anyone who has fished one.

First proper fish

Caught a few smolt this winter but this is my first proper sized fish on a fly rod and my first steelhead/lake-run rainbow. Egg pattern under an indicator on a 6wt.

Fly line recommendations

So I recently purchased a 7 foot 63 weight that I plan to use in small streams and little ponds for bluegill and trout. What's some good lines you guys use on a 3 weight rod, I'm assuming just a standard wait forward floating line? Bit open to different ideas. I currently own a 8 weight and a 6 and a 5 weight.This is my first 3 weight.

Which 5wt: Redington Classic Trout OR Echo Carbon XL?

Debating on which one of these I should get for my first 5 wt rod. I'm new to fly fishing so when it comes to casting action I don't really have much of a point of reference. I already have a 4 wt and a 6 wt.

Diamond Soft Hackles

These are some wet n’ dry soft hackles that have produced consistently for me over the years. They’re meant to be fished on a team of three upstream over riffles on warm summer days in the sort of water that dries and weighted nymphs are kind of useless.

Josie’s Big Day

I’ve never had a dog who was a really good fishing partner. When I brought Josie home, I knew that was going be be a goal. My dog and me out on the river, doing our thing without any particular plan. It sounds good on paper but anyone who fishes with dogs knows it isn’t always ideal. Ive definitely had dogs who weren't with the program.

Euro nymphing rod for dry flies?

I recently ordered a diamondback gen 4 online. The more I’m researching, it almost seems as though it could be viable as a dry fly rod as well. Is this true? If so, what qualities that a euro rod have that cross over into a dry fly rod? I purchase a 10’7”3wt. I know that there’s no “rules” but I want some opinions and knowledge.

Fly Fishing 101: How To Choose Your First Fly Rod

Walk into any fly shop, or browse around online, and you’ll quickly realize there are more fly rod choices out there than questionable food at a casino buffet. In this case, though, picking a less-than-stellar rod won’t give you food poisoning, so there’s a lot less risk involved.

Finner Excel Fly Outfit

https://www.finner.co.uk/products/xcel-fly-fishing-rodAnyone have experience with or opinions on the above? I’m looking at upgrading from my Temu Sougayilang special.TIA!

Taming Marabou Tails

By Bob Reece As we move toward spring, the presentation of streamers increases for many fly fishers. For those of us that tie our own, the use of some materials is far more common than others. Marabou tends to be one of those materials, particularly in the tails of many bugger style streamers.

Need some help

I don’t really know what I’m doing yet. I’m going backpacking with friends and we’re planning to try and catch trout. I’m thinking about getting the Daiwa Megaforce Travel Rod 2.10 m because it folds down small enough to fit in my backpack.I’d like to invest in decent gear without breaking the bank, but I’m confused about line sizes.

Fishing the Fall, What You Should Know About Sinking Fly Lines

By Garner Reid A GOOD PORTION OF MY FLY FISHING INVOLVES THROWING SOME SORT OF A SINKING FLY LINE. Realistically, half of my time on the water involves streamers and sinking lines at least for some part of the day. If I am not out on the water guiding for streamer-eating fish like stripers, I’m in the fly shop talking about them.

How to Tie: The Red Tag Nymph

In this week’s “How to Tie” feature, APH Flying Tying shows us a fantastic attractor pattern you can fish all year long, the Red Tag Nymph.

Boundary Waters Protection with Matthew Schultz, Fishing Guides’ Favorite Beer Test, and More | TWIFF – Flylords Podcast

Follow along as we explore the latest fly fishing news and controversial opinions in This Week in Fly Fishing with Jared and Wills. In this episode, Matthew Schultz with Sportsmen for the Boundary Waters joins the crew to talk about the concerning conservation issues the Boundary Waters are facing.

DENVER FLY FISHING SHOW: NEW PRODUCTS OF 2026

Each winter, brands bring new and updated gear to the Denver Fly Fishing Show. It’s a chance to see what’s changing, what’s being refined, and what products are making their way into anglers’ hands in the coming season.

Last Cast Bonefish

Bonefishing, for me, is the purest form of the drug. I’m just returning from the first of three G&G Bonefish Schools in the Bahamas. This trip was more of a reunion than a school, with better than half of the anglers returning for the second or third time.

Olympic Peninsula Steelhead Won’t Get ESA Protection—Despite “Moderate Risk of Extinction”

NOAA's decision not to list OP steelhead under the ESA has conservation groups reviewing legal options and demanding immediate action from state and tribal co-managers — all while the peak of the wild winter run is underway. Image by Hone Creative

From Lakes to Lagoons: Your Saltwater Survival Guide

Getting Hooked: The Essential Gear and Techniques for Saltwater Fly Fishing Newbies

From Freshwater Newbie to Saltwater Sage: Navigating the Flats

Essential Fly Fishing Gear: The Must-Haves for Every Angler's Arsenal

Gear Up: Must-Have Equipment for the Modern Angler

One of my biggest accomplishments yet

One of my biggest accomplishments so far, the California heritage trout challenge. Fort the first trout, I went up to the Tahoe area to catch the Lahontan cutthrot trout.

Gear Up: Elevate Your Fly Fishing Game with the Latest Must-Haves

The Essential Gear Guide: Equip Yourself for Fly Fishing Success

Chasing the Big Ones: A Saltwater Fly Fishing Odyssey

Nice stocked Rainbow

Was throwing lures all morning with no follows or hits. Tried something a bit unconventional and was able to hook into this one with two trout worms wacky rigged on a trout magnet jig under a bobber. Close to 15 inches.

First time fly fishing in the salt

Just came back from La Paz BCS. Hired a guide in Ensenada de Muertos for some fishing. We trolled lures for a few hours then Capt said change of plan and we hit the beach inside the lighthouse. He threw live sardines to get them frenzied and I cast into the fray, tuck the rod under my arm and two hand retrieve fast.

Saltwater bug

Got my birthday present a little early. Headed out to the beach today. Make no mistake, I am as newbie as they come but I just couldn’t stay out of the water. 9ft rod, 9line, rio saltwater leader…just used the chartreuse fly today. Looked like a fool for the first 30 mins, but got to feeling it after that. Had one hit and miss but that feeling.

3 Classic Flies For New Tyers

By Bob Reece Three points of contact provide stability. There are a plethora of patterns that new tiers could begin with. Yet three in particular lay out the fundamental techniques needed to create a stabile foundation for your fly tying future. The Woolly Bugger, Pheasant Tail and Elk Hair Caddis have all proven their worth.

Keep Your Hands on the Cork

Like so many others out there, I've broken my fair share of fly rods over the years. I've slammed them in tailgates, stuck them in ceiling fans and I've squashed quite a few trying to get in and out of my cataraft to quickly.

Is the New Orvis Recon the Best Rod for the Money? Our Thoughts

Orvis just announced the newest addition to its fly rod lineup, the redesigned Recon series. Since the release of the first Recon back in 2015, this rod has developed a huge following as a mid-priced, performance-driven fly rod.

Flies That Catch Big Trout, The Truth Might Surprise You

I HAVE DEFINITE IDEAS ABOUT HOW TO CATCH BIG TROUT. APPARENTLY THEY ARE ALL WRONG. Like every other guy or gal with a fly rod, I have some pretty strong opinions about the kind of flies that catch big fish. These opinions are based on years of experience and experimentation.

Rubber, Above & Below

By Bob Reece Round rubber and spandex are two members in the vast tide of synthetic materials that have washed over the fly tying world in recent years. They have both been used to create numerous surface and subsurface patterns. However, I would argue that one is better suited for the world above while the other thrives below.

The Drift: Do We Care Too Much About Fly Rods?

Last week, I wrote about my close encounter with a highly-collectible rod, the Winston 8’6″ 4-weight BIIt, nicknamed “The Staff of Moses.” I’m still kicking myself for not buying it (despite the $800+ price tag), but hopefully when the next one comes along, I’ll have some extra cash laying around.

Sage Unveils Limited Edition Enforcer Grand Slam Reels: A Collector’s Dream for Flats Anglers

The three-model collection pays tribute to the legendary saltwater "Grand Slam"—the rare feat of landing a bonefish, permit, and tarpon in a single day.

What Current Fly Rods Will Be Collectibles In 20 Years?

Some fly rods end up as more than just another entry in that year’s product catalog. A select few gain a cult following, often retaining their value (and exceeding their original retail price) as the years march on.

How to get started in trout Spey with Pete Kutzer

Any kind of two-handed fishing is confusing for those of us who mostly fish with a single-handed rod. I asked the great Pete Kutzer...